P.S. 164 Queens Valley

Test scores at P.S. 164 hover close to but slightly below district averages — ELA at 64.1% (district: 65%) and math at 63.3% (district: 70%). The school has rebounded from a dip in 2017-2019 when ELA dipped into the mid-50s and math similarly struggled, and current scores represent a solid recovery. However, performance varies dramatically by grade: fourth graders show strong math proficiency (85%) while fifth graders lag significantly (36% math, 50% ELA). This inconsistency suggests that certain grade-level teams or curricula may be more effective than others — something parents of rising fifth graders in particular may want to investigate.

This is where P.S. 164 truly shines — and also where it faces a real challenge. Family satisfaction sits at 93% with near-universal agreement that the school builds strong relationships (100%). Teachers report 97% safety and 88% instruction quality. Yet teacher-principal trust lags at 76% — notably lower than the 95% parent-teacher trust — suggesting that while families feel heard, staff may have concerns about leadership direction. The school has had zero suspensions for two of the past three years, a stark contrast to the district average of 0.25%.

The student body reflects Kew Gardens Hills itself: 35% white, 32% Asian, 26% Hispanic, 5% Black — a diverse mix that feels more integrated than many Queens neighborhoods. The diversity index of 72% is solid, and with 57.8% economic need, this is a working-to-middle-class community. At 573 students across PK-8, it's a mid-sized school where most children know each other — a contrast to the massive gifted programs nearby.

Kew Gardens Hills is a residential, family-oriented neighborhood in central Queens — think tree-lined blocks, a mix of single-family homes and low-rise co-ops, and a community feel that retains some old-Queens charm. Safety scores are middle-of-the-road (55.56 percentile), transit access is limited (31 percentile), but family density is solid and education orientation scores well (67 percentile). There are several parks nearby and the area is known for being quiet and kid-friendly.

Most families walk or drive — the neighborhood is car-oriented with limited subway access. Families without a car may find the commute to nearby transit hubs a consideration.